After much anticipation from the community, the Ocean Avenue Pedestrian Bridge is finally open with a newer look and feel.

Reconstruction to the bridge in Sheepshead Bay has been quite limited since it was first built back in 1880 – until now. Many people say it was long overdue.

"Before it was rebuilt, I always thought like at any certain moment it could actually break down,” said Immanuel Mindich. “And I could fall in.”

Thanks to Department of Transportation workers, pedestrians now have a complete deck replacement with brand-new planks, new railings, new paint and even decorative lighting to match. All for the price tag of $1.2 million.

"It's just very pleasant in the evening or when the weather is nice to just walk across,” said Barbara Ochen.

The bridge is more than just a path. It bridges the gap between Sheepshead Bay and Manhattan Beach communities.

"I would sometimes hesitate and say maybe I won't go to Sheepshead Bay today,” said Ochen.

Now that it's back, community members like Ochen are happy to see a vital part of their routine back on track.

DOT officials say they want to keep that momentum going.

"Of our $34 billion capital for the next 10 years, $17 billion is for the maintenance and repair of our bridges," DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said at the ribbon cutting.